LATHEN SWORN IN AS A WELCOME CHANGE

It was supposed to be Amy Lathen's day in the spotlight, but her predecessor on the El Paso County Board of Commissioners proved hard to forget.

Lathen was sworn in to the District 2 seat Thursday, surrounded by family and supporters.

"It is a privilege to be able to serve everyone in the county and the people in District 2," Lathen said. "I know the tremendous amount of work that there is to be done, and I am ready to do that for all of you. My door is open."

She was showered with flowers and a certificate of appreciation from a citizens group.

Without mentioning his name, the other four commissioners repeatedly emphasized that Lathen is everything Douglas Bruce, who left three weeks ago to serve in the state House of Representatives, was not. "From a real practical point of view, it means that we will have somebody attending functions in that district, and I can spend more time in my district," said County Commission Chairman Dennis Hisey.

Hisey attended ceremonies and meetings at Schriever Air Force Base for Bruce, who refused to participate in such unofficial and symbolic events.

"But probably more important, I think the citizens of District 2 now have somebody that will listen to them when they call in and bring their issues before the commissioners," Hisey said.

Beating out two other contenders, Lathen was appointed to the seat Jan. 19 by a Republican vacancy committee for the district.

Lathen's few but vocal critics, including Bruce, contended she would be another "yes" vote on a board known for approving most items that come before it.

The new commissioner has said repeatedly that while she intends to work with her new colleagues, she won't always agree with them.

CONTACT THE WRITER: 636-0232 or carlyn.mitchell@gazette.com

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